Salt Mine Sanctuary - 18th June 2021

130 metres beneath the surface in southern Poland lies this converted salt mine, a calling point for tourists and health resort for nearly 200 years.

The facility, renowned for offering salt therapy to patients with pulmonary issues, is now a haven for patients suffering with long Covid. Its unique therapeutic services are alleviating suffering and supporting recovery of those battling persistent Covid health complaints.

Centre physician, Doctor Magdalena Ramatowska, outlines its beneficial features.

Magdalena Ramatowska: "Here, above all, the air is pure, without allergens. This environment is excellent for the respiratory tract. There is high humidity, very few draughts and a richness of saline aerosol that acts against inflammation and the spread of bacteria."

After making their descent into this subterranean environment by means of a lift, small groups are put through their paces. Doctors and physiotherapists prescribe therapeutic programmes which feature dance sessions, fitness machines and bubble-blowing chest physiotherapies.

With more than 50 distinct lingering physical and psychological disorders observed in Covid sufferers by the centre’s physicians, their therapies cover muscle and joint pain, lack of balance and coordination and reductions in memory function and concentration.

No international scientific consensus has been reached on whether salt therapy produces measurable results or acts as a convenient placebo. However, physiotherapist Agata Kita has witnessed the significant rehabilitative effects on patients attending the underground health resort.

Agata Kita: Nevertheless, patients who have had Covid can return to a very good state of health. On average, their physical test results improve by 60 to 80 percent."

Long Covid sufferers directed to the health centre through the national healthcare system receive three weeks of funded treatment, staying alongside private, self-funding clients.

After relying on a ventilator during her 20 day Covid hospitalisation, Lucyna Szulc senses quantifiable improvements in her condition.

Lucyna Szulc: "When I came out of the hospital, I had very weak breathing. Now I feel better. I also feel that my physical condition is improving."